What question should the nurse ask to assess a new mother's situation regarding her crying baby?

Asking about the baby's daily schedule is essential in assessing a new mother's situation regarding her crying baby because it encompasses various aspects of the baby's routine, including feeding, sleeping, and waking times. Understanding the baby's overall daily structure allows the nurse to identify potential patterns or disruptions contributing to the baby's crying.

While questions about the baby's sleeping pattern, feeding schedule, and specific sleep duration provide important information, they are narrower in scope. A holistic view through the daily schedule can reveal interactions between sleep, feeding, and activity periods, which are crucial for understanding and addressing the reasons behind the baby's crying. This comprehensive approach helps the nurse provide better support and guidance to the new mother, ensuring she receives pertinent information that can aid in managing her baby's needs.